It was that time of year again when I venture north to
Byron Bay to conduct a weekend seminar and Black Belt grading. The Byron Bay
Instructor, Shirsha Marie 4th Degree had done a great job in organising the
weekend and I really enjoyed seeing everyone again. My lovely hosts, Eli and
Amy put me up at their house and made my stay very comfortable and it was very
much appreciated.
This time last year, I attended the seminar and Black Belt
grading in Byron with Master Scott Wetherell. The students had fond memories of
Scott's visit and were saddened by his passing.
The weekend weather was very hot but it didn't stop the
keen students partaking in the seminar. Also attending, were senior
Instructors, Phil Eizenberg 4th Degree, Jamie Bennett 4th Degree and Dominic
Spreckley 3rd Degree.
The grading consisted of one pre-grading for 2nd Degree,
Thomas Knight and three Black Tip ladies attempting to grade for 1st Degree
Black Belt. They were Justine Lobb, Vanessa James and Danielle Coombs. All
three performed exceptionally well and I was very impressed with not only their
technical ability but also their focus and determination.
They certainly
demonstrated that they had trained hard for this grading and obviously
recognised the importance of grading to Black Belt. Thomas's progress is going well and I gave
him some advice on certain areas he may still need to work on. Unfortunately
Thomas was injured in the grading while helping out in the multiple self
defence but still happily attended the after party.
All three ladies were full of praise for their instructor
and Shirsha should be very proud of the standard of Black Belts she is
accumulating on the North Coast. Well
done to everyone and thank you to those who helped out at the grading.
Master Kevin Brown
